Prestaging, gesture-based, access control system

ABSTRACT

A prestaging, gesture-based, access control system includes a local access assembly, a mobile device, a storage medium, and a processor. The assembly includes a controller to effect actuation between access and no-access states. The mobile device is carried by a user, and includes a detection system configured to detect a prestaging event inherently performed by the user toward an intent to gain access and followed by the detection of a primary intentional gesture specifically performed by the user toward the intent to gain access. The storage medium and the processor are configured to receive prestaging event information and primary intentional gesture information from the detection system, and execute an application to determine the performance of the prestaging event from the prestaging event information, then determine the performance of the primary intentional gesture from the primary intentional gesture information if the prestaging event is determined to have occurred.

BACKGROUND

The present disclosure relates to access control systems, and moreparticularly, to prestaging, gesture-based, access control systems.

Access control systems are used in a variety of applications includingstructures, buildings and or components including safes, subwayturnstiles, child proof storage containers, and many other applications.In the, non-limiting, example of buildings, many such structures must besecured in the sense that the identification and number of peopleentering and exiting a building at any given moment in time should beknown. One known way in achieving this task is to assign a badge to allindividuals requiring access. Each human is then required to perform ahard badge-in task at a reader located proximate to any entry point. Inone example, the badge may be identified by the reader via a magneticstrip. Another example is reading a badge using RFID. Unfortunately,such a process requires each human to, for example, swipe their badgeseparately before entry is allowed. This task can be time consuming.

More current access control systems utilize smartphones in place ofbadges. A key technology behind such use of smartphones is Near FieldCommunications (NFC) which allows short range communication. With thisapplication, both the smartphone and the local access control readermust have NFC hardware. Other options may include a Human InterfaceDevice (HID) of a reader capable of detecting, for example, a twistingof a smartphone in front of the reader in a controlled fashion to showintent. However, both the smartphone and the reader must be capable ofindependently detecting the intent. Moreover, current methods stillrequire the user to retrieve the smartphone and perform specific actswith the smartphone. Such retrieval and/or action can be frustrating forthe user and time consuming.

Improvements in access systems that may further optimize ease ofoperation with, or without, reduced components is desirable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

A prestaging, gesture-based, access control system according to one,non-limiting, embodiment of the present disclosure includes a localaccess assembly adapted to operate between an access state and ano-access state, the local access assembly including a controller toeffect actuation between the access state and the no-access state; amobile device adapted to be carried by a user, the mobile deviceincluding at least one detection system configured to detect aprestaging event inherently performed by the user toward an intent togain access, and followed by the detection of a primary intentionalgesture specifically performed by the user toward the intent to gainaccess; one or more electronic storage mediums configured to store anapplication and preprogrammed scenario data associated with theprestaging event and the primary intentional gesture; and one or moreprocessors configured to receive prestaging event information andprimary intentional gesture information from the at least one detectionsystem, and execute the application to determine the performance of theprestaging event from the prestaging event information, then determinethe performance of the primary intentional gesture from the primaryintentional gesture information if the prestaging event is determined tohave occurred.

Additionally to the foregoing embodiment, the prestaging event is aninherent gesture.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the inherent gesture is a decelerating walk by the user, and the atleast one detection system includes an inertial measurement unit (IMU)sensing system configured to measure motion of the mobile deviceindicative of the decelerating walk.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the one or more processors include a timer, and the application isconfigured to initiate the timer upon the detection of the prestagingevent.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the primary intentional gesture is performed and confirmed during aprescribed time interval measured by the timer.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the application is configured to effect a command signal sent to theaccess assembly to actuate the access assembly from the no-access stateto the access state if the primary intentional gesture is determined.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the mobile device includes a human interface device (HID) adapted toprovide notifications to the user.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the mobile device includes a human interface device (HID) adapted toprovide notifications to the user during the prescribed time duration.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the prestaging event contributes toward a motion of the mobile device,and the at least one detection system includes an inertial measurementunit (IMU) sensing system configured to measure the motion.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the application includes a motion module configured to receive themeasured motion and determine prestaging event occurrence based at leastin-part on the measured motion.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the primary intentional gesture is detected by at least one of the IMUsensing system and an environment detecting system of the at least onedetection system.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the motion module is initiated by the application upon a determinationby the application that the user is within a prescribed vicinity of theaccess assembly as determined by at least one of a received signalstrength indicator (RSSI) module of the application and asatellite-based location detection module of the application.

A method of operating a prestaging, gesture-based, access control systemaccording to another, non-limiting, embodiment includes the steps ofmonitoring for a prestaging event by a mobile device and performed by auser, wherein the mobile device is carried by the user and theprestaging event is indicative of an inherent intent of the user to gainaccess; detecting the prestaging event by at least one detection systemof the mobile device; confirming the detection by an applicationexecuted by one or more processors; initiating a timer by theapplication and upon the confirmation of the prestaging event; andmonitoring for a primary intentional gesture by the at least onedetection system and during a prescribed time interval counted by thetimer.

Additionally to the foregoing embodiment, the method includes detectingthe primary intentional gesture by the at least one detection system;confirming detection of the primary intentional gesture by theapplication; effecting delivery of a command signal by the applicationand to an access assembly adapted to actuate between an access state anda no-access state.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the prestaging event is a decelerating walk.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the at least one detection system includes an inertial measurement unit(IMU) sensing system configured to measure the decelerating walk.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the primary intentional gesture is a device-free gesture.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the device-free gesture is a waving of a hand of the user proximate tothe access assembly.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the primary intentional gesture is a device gesture.

In the alternative or additionally thereto, in the foregoing embodiment,the device gesture is a waving of the mobile device proximate to theaccess assembly.

The foregoing features and elements may be combined in variouscombinations without exclusivity, unless expressly indicated otherwise.These features and elements as well as the operation thereof will becomemore apparent in light of the following description and the accompanyingdrawings. However, it should be understood that the followingdescription and drawings are intended to be exemplary in nature andnon-limiting.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various features will become apparent to those skilled in the art fromthe following detailed description of the disclosed non-limitingembodiments. The drawings that accompany the detailed description can bebriefly described as follows:

FIG. 1 is a schematic of an access control system utilizing adevice-free gesture and applied to a door;

FIG. 2 is another schematic of the access control system;

FIG. 3 is a flow chart of a method of operating the access controlsystem;

FIG. 4 is a flow chart of a method of determining motion, location andposition of a mobile device of the access control system;

FIG. 5 is a schematic of another embodiment of the access control systemapplying a device gesture;

FIG. 6 is a schematic of first example of a device gesture;

FIG. 7 is a schematic of a second example of a device gesture;

FIG. 8 is a schematic of a third example of a device gesture;

FIG. 9 is a schematic of a fourth example of a device gesture;

FIG. 10 is a schematic of a user carrying a first type of containmentcontaining the mobile device of the access control system;

FIG. 11 is a schematic of the access control system relative to FIG. 10and performing a first device-free gesture;

FIG. 12 is a schematic of the access control system relative to FIG. 10and performing a second device-free gesture;

FIG. 13 is a schematic of a user carrying a second type of containmentcontaining the mobile device of the access control system and performinga first containment gesture;

FIG. 14 is a schematic of a user carrying the second type of containmentcontaining the mobile device of the access control system and performinga second containment gesture;

FIG. 15 is a schematic of a user carrying the second type of containmentcontaining the mobile device of the access control system and performinga third containment gesture;

FIG. 16 is a schematic of the user illustrating various positions,locations, and uses of the mobile device 26 relative to an adaptiveintent mode detection feature of the gesture-based access controlsystem;

FIG. 17 is a schematic of the gesture-based access control systemillustrating the adaptive intent mode detection feature;

FIG. 18 is a flow chart illustrating a sequential portions of aninherent gesture of a seamless access control system as one embodimentof the gesture-based access control system;

FIG. 19 is a schematic illustrating a cloud-based embodiment of thegesture-based access control system;

FIG. 20 is a schematic of the application of another embodiment of thegesture-based access control system being a knocking gesture accesscontrol system;

FIG. 21 is a perspective view of the mobile device 26;

FIG. 22 is a flow chart of a method of operating a prestaging,gesture-based access control system as another embodiment of thegesture-based access control system;

FIG. 23 is a flow chart of a method of training the gesture-based accesscontrol system; and

FIG. 24 is a graph illustrating a user specific model as part ofpreprogrammed scenario data of a software-based application of thegesture-based access control system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIG. 1, a gesture-based access control system 20 isillustrated in one, non-limiting application, of a door 22 providinguser access into, and out of, a building, structure, room, or the like.In this embodiment, the access control system 20 is adapted to unlockthe door upon a detected, intentional, gesture made by a user 23 (e.g.,human) desiring access. Although the present application is applied tothe door 22, it is contemplated and understood that the access controlsystem 20 may also apply to anything requiring access control including,for example, computers, subway turnstiles, safes, child proof storagecompartments, and others. As will become more apparent, the intentionalgesture may be a device-free gesture (see arrow 25 in FIG. 1) in someembodiments, or a device gesture (see arrow 94 in FIG. 6) in otherembodiments.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, and in one embodiment, the access controlsystem 20 includes a lock, or access, assembly 24, a mobile device 26carried by the user 23, and a wireless interface 28. The mobile device26 is adapted to wirelessly communicate with the lock assembly 24 overthe wireless interface 28. The lock assembly 24 may include a latch 30(e.g., deadbolt), a driver 32, a controller 34, and a receiver 36 thatmay be a transceiver with bi-directional communication capability, andthat includes an antenna. The receiver 36 is configured to receive awireless access, or command, signal (see arrow 38) over the wirelessinterface 28 and from the mobile device 26. The access signal 38 is sentto the controller 34. The controller 34 may process the signal 38, andbased on the signal, initiate the driver 32 to move the latch 30 from ano-access state to an access state (i.e., locked and unlockedpositions). In one embodiment, the access assembly 24 is an accessreader (e.g., RFID reader). Examples of the signal 38 may be Bluetooth,Wifi, or other communication signals that may be short range. The accessassembly 24 may be a local access assembly 24, and is generally locatedproximate to the door, or other component, whose access the assembly 24is adapted to control.

The controller 34 may be any combination of one or more of a centralprocessing unit (CPU), multiprocessor, microcontroller unit (MCU),digital signal process (DSP), application specific integrated circuit,and others capable of executing software instructions, or otherwisecontrollable to behave according to predetermined logic. In one example,the driver 32 is an electric motor with a relay operated by thecontroller. In another example, the driver 32 is an electromagneticdriver. The wireless interface 28 is any current or future wirelessinterface allowing communication between the mobile device 26 and thelock assembly 24. Non-limiting examples of the wireless interface 28include Bluetooth, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), Radio FrequencyIdentification (RFID), Near Field Communication (NFC), any of the IEEE802.11 standards, and others.

In one embodiment, the mobile device 26 includes a transmitter 40 thatmay be a transceiver having an antenna, a controller 42, and at leastone detection system (i.e., three illustrated as 46, 48, 50). The atleast one detection system may include an inertial measurement unit(IMU) sensor system 46, an environment detection system 48, an internalactivity (i.e., usage) notification module 50, and others for generallydetermining motion, position, location, and usage of the mobile device26 relative to the user 23. Non-limiting examples of the mobile device26 include a smartphone, a mobile phone, a key fob, a wristwatch (i.e.,smart watch), and other similar devices typically carried by the user23.

The controller 42 of the mobile device 26 includes a processor 56 and astorage medium 58. Optionally, the processor 56 is any combination ofone or more of a central processing unit (CPU), multiprocessor,microcontroller unit (MCU), digital signal processor (DSP), applicationspecific integrated circuit, and others capable of executing softwareinstructions or otherwise controllable to behave according topredetermined logic. The storage medium 58 is, optionally, anycombination of read and write memory (RAM) and read only memory (ROM).The storage medium 58 may also include persistent storage, which can beany single one or combination of solid state memory, magnetic memory, oroptical memory storing a computer program (i.e., application) withsoftware instructions.

In one embodiment, and similar to the controller 42 of the mobile device26, the controller 34 of the lock assembly 24 may include a processor 70and a storage medium 72. Optionally, the processor 70 is any combinationof one or more of a central processing unit (CPU), multiprocessor,microcontroller unit (MCU), digital signal processor (DSP), applicationspecific integrated circuit, and others capable of executing softwareinstructions or otherwise controllable to behave according topredetermined logic. The storage medium 72 is, optionally, anycombination of read and write memory (RAM) and read only memory (ROM).The storage medium 72 may also include persistent storage, which can beany single one or combination of solid state memory, magnetic memory, oroptical memory storing a computer program (i.e., application) withsoftware instructions. It is contemplated and understood that in oneembodiment, the controller 42 may not include a storage medium 72, andmay only include control circuitry capable of receiving the signal 38from the mobile device 26 as a command signal that initiates actuationof the lock assembly 24.

The gesture-based access control system 20 may further include anapplication 60. In one embodiment, the application 60 is software-basedand is stored, at least in-part, in the storage medium 58 for retrievaland execution by the processor 56 of the controller 42. The application60 may include computer instructions 62, and a database of preprogrammeddata. For example, the preprogrammed data includes credential data 64,and scenario data 66. In one embodiment, the scenario data 66 isindicative of a ‘compound’ motion by the user 23 that may notnecessarily include the gesture, but is dependent upon (i.e., a functionof) the carrying location of the mobile device 26 on the user 23.

In another embodiment, the application 60 may at least in-part be storedin at least one storage medium contained in a cloud (i.e., remoteserver) and executed at least in-part by at least one processor of thecloud.

For reasons of clarity, the term “intentional gesture” as used herein isan act (e.g., physical motion) performed by the user 23 to gain access.In one example, the access gained may be through a door 22 (see FIG. 1),but may also be access into any physical structure and/or electronicsystems (e.g., computer). For purposed of this disclosure, examples ofan intentional gesture may include a device-free gesture, a devicegesture, and an inherent gesture.

The term “device-free gesture,” refers to an intentional gesture thatgenerally does not physically include the mobile device 26 (see gesture25 in FIG. 1). For example, if the device-free 25 made by the user 23 isthe waving of a right hand 74, the mobile device 26 is not in the righthand 74 but may be located anywhere else on the person of the user 23.In contrast, the term “device gesture,” (see gesture 94 in FIG. 6) meansthe mobile device 23, itself, is being used as part of the intentionalgesture. In the present example, the device gesture 94 would include thewaving of the mobile device 26. More specifically and in line with thepresent example, the mobile device 26 would be in the right hand 74being waved (see FIGS. 5 and 6). Lastly, the term “inherent gesture”(see gesture 341 in FIG. 18) is the gesture applied as part of aseamless access control system. That is, the typical act of, forexample, opening a door (or typical motion(s) made toward thepreparation of opening the door) is the gesture. The inherent gesture is“intentional” in the sense that the user 23 intends to gain access.Specific examples of the inherent gesture may be reaching for a doorhandle, or pulling upon a door handle.

Determination of Mobile Device Motion, Position, and Location Relativeto User

Determination of motion (i.e., the compound motion) of the mobile device26 is needed to recognize an intentional gesture made by the user 23through differentiation of one or more motions made by the usersimultaneously. The determination of the position and/or location of themobile device 26 relative to the user 23 may assist in thedifferentiation of multiple motions made by the user 23 from themeasured compound motion of the mobile device 26. Alternatively, or inaddition to, determining the location of a mobile device 26 with respectto the user 23 may be advantageous when two access assemblies 24 ifrespective doors 22 are positioned closely together. In this scenario,knowing the location of the mobile device 26 would prevent, or reducethe chances, of the user 23, via the device-free intentional gesture,gaining access through the wrong door.

The inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensor system 46 may include one ormore of an accelerometer 80, a gyroscope 82, and others adapted todetect acceleration, and thus movement, in at least one dimension, andoptionally three dimensions. The environment detection system 48 mayinclude one or more of a visual camera 84 (i.e., computer-visionsystem), a temperature sensor, 86, a light sensor 88, and a proximitysensor 90 adapted to at least improve a level of confidence whendifferentiating the compound motion to determine if a device-freeintentional gesture is being made by the user 23.

The internal activity notification module 50 may also contribute towardthe optimization of confidence levels, and may be part of theapplication 60 or may be a separate computer software instruction. Forexample, the activity notification module 50 may notify the application60 that the user 23 is texting via the mobile device 26, or isconducting a phone conversation. When differentiating the compoundmotion, the application 60 may then attribute part of the motion toward,for example, the texting activity. In one embodiment, and depending uponhow the information data is processed by the application 60, the visualcamera 84 may be part of the IMU sensor system 46 (i.e., taking multiplepictures to determine motion), and/or may be part of the internalactivity notification module 50 (i.e., the user 23 is undergoing theactivity of taking photographs for pleasure).

In one embodiment, the visual camera 84 is adapted to detect movementvia the capturing of images of surroundings and analyzing differences inthe images over time. The temperature sensor 86 is adapted to measuretemperature. In one embodiment, temperature data is indicative of, atleast in-part, the body temperature of the user 23. For example, if themobile device 26 is in a rear pocket 56 (see FIG. 1) of clothing worn bythe user 23, the temperature data may be associated with a temperaturethat is higher than if the mobile device 26 were located in a purse orbackpack worn by the user 23. The proximity sensor 90 is adapted todetermine how close the mobile device 26 is to the user 23. For example,the mobile device 26 may be resting on a desk, may be in a back pocket56, may be in a purse, or may be in a backpack. The proximity sensor 90may also be used to determine if a substantial portion of the user 23 islocated between the sensor 90 and the access assembly 24, which maycause a degree of attenuation of signals between the assembly 24 and themobile device 26.

The light sensor 88 is adapted to measure the level of light adjacent tothe mobile device 26. Light data sent to the processor 42 from the lightsensor 88 may be indicative of the location of the mobile device 26 atthe time of gesturing by the user 23. For example, the mobile device 26may be in the rear pocket 56 of clothing worn by the user 23.

In operation, the IMU sensor system 46 enables the identification ofgesture based intent, and the environment detection system 48, andoptionally the activity notification module 50 function to boost thereliability of the intentional gesture identification. In one example,this is achieved by the fusion of information gained from the systems46, 48, and module 50 by the application 60 and use of machine learningalgorithm(s) and/or the preprogrammed scenario data 66. Referring toFIG. 4, a method of determining a location and/or position of a mobiledevice 26 with respect to the user 23 includes, at block 200, the motiondevice 26 activity being in standby, or otherwise blocked.

At block 202, the IMU sensor system 46 detects a periodic movement(i.e., the compound motion) and sends the information to the controller42. At block 204, the application 60 determines that at least a portionof the compound motion is characteristic of walking via at least onealgorithm, and at least a portion of the preprogrammed scenario data 66.At block 206, the temperature sensor 86 and/or the light sensor 88 ofthe environment detection system 48 sends information (i.e.,confirmation parameter data) to the controller 42 that is used by theapplication 60, to determine that the mobile device 26 is in, forexample, a back pocket or a backpack (i.e., the light sensor 88 detectsa dark environment). Moreover, the IMU sensor system 46 may also assistin detecting the relative position of the mobile device 26. For example,the angle of the mobile device 26 with respect to the ground, or floorsurface, may be indicative front pocket verse back pocket location,etc.. At block 208, the activity notification module 50 may provideinformation to the application 60 indicative of the current use (e.g.,texting) of the mobile device 26 by the user 23. Such current use mayprovide indications of the likely position of the mobile device 23(i.e., vertical, horizontal, or positions there-between) and/or mobiledevice motions that are part of the compound motion which may ultimatelybe differentiated from the intentional gesture. To accomplish blocks 206and 208, the application 60 may apply an algorithm and/or thepreprogrammed scenario data 66.

Training of Software-based Application

Referring to FIG. 2 and in operation, the application 60 may includetraining instructions (i.e., setup or calibration instructions)communicated to the user 23 via a human interface device (HID) 91 (seeFIG. 2) of the mobile device 26. The training instructions may instructthe user 23 to perform a variety of motions with the mobile device 26carried by the user 23 in various locations (e.g., back pocket, frontpocket, left hand while right hand is gesturing, and others), or ways(e.g., backpack, purse, and others), and/or while performing certainactivities with the mobile device 26 (e.g., texting, conversing, andothers). While the user 23 performs the various motions and/or routines,the application 60 may build, and thus preprogram, the scenario data 66utilizing information received from the at least one of the IMU sensorsystem 46, the environment detection system 48, and the internalactivity notification module 50.

For example, the application 60 may instruct the user 23 to walk withthe mobile device 26 in the rear pocket 56. The motion and otherparameters are then detected by at least one of the systems 46, 48, andthe module 50, and the resulting information is preprogrammed as part ofthe scenario data 66. As part of another event, the application 60 maythen instruct the user 23 to perform the same walk with the mobiledevice 26 in the same location, but while performing a chosen gestureintended to cause the access assembly 24 to respond (i.e., unlock).Again, the resulting motion detected by one or more of the systems 46,48 and module 50 is recorded as part of the scenario data 66. Similarinstructions may progress with the user 23 relocating the mobile device26 on his or her person and performing various movements with andwithout the gesturing. Upon completion of the training instructions, thescenario data 66 may generally resemble a matrix or array of data.

In one embodiment, the application 60 may include machine learningtechniques and/or algorithms (e.g., deep learning). With machinelearning algorithms, gesture recognition can be trained more and more toa given user's particular interactions. Moreover, by conducting a formof ‘continuous’ training, the application 60 has the ability to conformto a user's changing habits (i.e., possibly caused by an injury) over aperiod of time.

In one example, the application 60 may include machine learningalgorithm(s) configured to determine, or confirm, user intent fromexplicit intent signal(s) generated by one or more of the detectionsystems 46 48, 50, and determine user authentication (i.e., the mobiledevice 26 actually belongs to the user 23) by matching the intentsignals against a user specific, pre-defined, pattern. The user intentand user authentication may be inferred from IMU signals, audio signals,RSSI (e.g., Bluetooth), and other data from, for example, from wearablemobile devices 26. In another embodiment, while user intent may beconfirmed by a number or pattern of knocks, user authorization may beconfirmed by the intensity of the knocks, a delay between knocks, and/ora change of intensity from one knock to the next.

Referring to FIG. 23 and in one embodiment, the application 60 mayinclude a training mode of operation. At block 500, and via the HID 91,the user 23 may select the training mode. In this mode, and at block502, the user 23 is prompted by the application 60 via the HID 91, andmay select, an intentional gesture type from a library of supportedgesture types as part of the scenario data 66. At block 504, the user 23is prompted by the application 60, and the user 23 may perform,repetitions of the selected gesture type for intent. At block 506,machine learning algorithm(s) are collecting and analyzing data from therepetitious performance of the selected gesture type to build a userspecific model associated with selected gesture type and as part of thescenario data 66. At block 508, the machine learning algorithm(s)determine that that the user specific model is of sufficiently highquality and confidence, and the application 60 via the HID 91, notifiesthe user 91 of model completion. Non-limiting examples of gesture typesmay include tapping by the user 23 on the mobile device 26 for a fixednumber of times (i.e., a prescribed pattern, see FIG. 20), a knock onthe door 22, a user specific voice command made into a microphone 130 ofthe mobile device 26 (see FIG. 2), and other gesture types.

After the training mode of operation, the application 60 may enter intoa deployment mode. In this mode, statistical machine learning techniquesare deployed, via algorithms, which may be in, and supported by, a cloud360 (i.e., a remote server, see FIG. 19). In this example, at least aportion of the application 60 may be in the cloud 360, and the cloudfunctions to build the user specific model. In one embodiment, the userspecific model may be improved over time via the use of machine learningalgorithms. In this way, specific users 23 become easier to identifyover time. At block 510, the user 23 may then perform a list ofpre-trained gestures (i.e., preprogrammed into the application 60) tosignal intent and authenticate them.

More specifically, in the training mode of operation, data is collectedreflective of specific actions enforced upon the user 23 for purposes oftraining. This may be considered as defining the ground truth of the‘right way’ of performing a gesture. Optionally, the application 60 mayalso collect data on how the specific actions is not to be performed tofurther enhance the learning.

Once the training mode is complete and the data is collected, algorithmsare then trained with the data to extract the relevantinformation/features that detect if the specific action, or gesture, wasperformed and in the right way. The result is a trained model (i.e., theuser specific model) that is then deployed.

Referring to FIG. 24, a graph 118 having three portions 118A, 118B, 118Cis illustrated that generally reflects one example of a modeling processwherein the gesture type may be tapping on the mobile device 26. TheX-axis of each graph portion 118A, 118B, 118C is over a common timeduration. Graph portion 118A illustrates raw accelerometer data causedby movement of the mobile device 26 incurred during tapping. Graphportion 118B illustrates corresponding audio data. Graph portion 118Billustrates extracted features with the tapping confirmation highlightedwith star symbols. The spike patterns and the time intervals betweenspikes are unique to the user 23 and may be used as the authentication(i.e., code).

Completion of the training and deployment modes produces the userspecific detection model that serves both as gesture confirmation and auser authentication based on the observed signals from one or more ofthe detection systems 46, 48, 50. The model also provides a confidencelevel in user authentication that may improve with further usage. Thisconfidence level may be used to allow or deny access to, for example,building areas.

Distinguishing Separate User Movements from a Measured Compound Motionby the Mobile Device

In one embodiment, the application 60 may rely on the observation thatthe device-free gesture (e.g., hand waving) produces minute periodicmotion of the human body (i.e., a part of the compound motion) that canbe captured using the IMU sensor system 46, the environment detectionsystem 48, and/or the internal activity notification module 50 of themobile device 26. Machine learning algorithms are trained to distinguishthe associated minute motion, indicative of the gesture, from other andmore prominent body movements that may be observed during walking orconversing.

Optionally, the controller 42 of the mobile device 26 may receive datafrom the light system 54. In one example, the light data may be appliedto determine if the mobile device 26 is carried in a hand, oralternatively, in a pocket, backpack, or purse. The temperature sensor86 of the environment detection system 48 may output temperature data tothe controller 42 to determine if, for example, the mobile device 26 isin a hand or pocket, as oppose to in a backpack or purse. Thetemperature and/or light data may be applied as additional data towardthe compound motion to increase matching confidence levels when theapplication 60 compares, or attempts to match, the compound motion tothe preprogrammed scenario data 66.

In one embodiment, the chosen device-free intentional gesture may be thewaving of a hand 74 (see FIG. 1) that is free of the mobile device 26.That is, the mobile device 26 is located elsewhere on, or near, the user23. In other words, the user 23 is not required to retrieve his/hermobile device 26 to perform any device function or input. The user 23need only perform the correct intentional gesture to gain accessthrough, for example, the door 22. Examples of other intentionalgestures may include left-to-right motions of a human arm, up-to-downmotions of the human hand 74, a motion of the head and/or shoulders, orany other distinctive motion.

In one embodiment, the intentional gesture may be a secret gesture, thusfurther authentication between the mobile device 26 and the accessassembly 24 is not needed. In this example, the access assembly 24 maybe relatively simple, and need not be preprogrammed.

In another embodiment, the access assembly 24 may be preprogrammed toonly accept command signals 38 that are entrained, or accompanied, withan authentication code generally preprogrammed into both controllers 34,42. Thus the controller 34 is capable of matching a receivedauthentication code from the mobile device 26 (i.e., part of signal 38)to a code 76 preprogrammed into the storage medium 72.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, and during normal operation of the gestureaccess control system 20; at block 100, the controller 34 of the accessassembly 24 may broadcast a beacon signal (see arrow 78 in FIG. 2) viathe transceiver 36. In one example, the beacon signal 78 may be encodedas part of the authentication process between the mobile device 26 andthe access assembly 24. In one example, the broadcast beacon signals 78may be of a Bluetooth radio type. In other examples, the signal 78 maybe Wifi/cell radio or may be an audible frequency spectrum. It isfurther contemplated and understood that other ways of authenticatingthe mobile device 26 with the access assembly 24, which are known bythus skilled in the art, may be applied while the novelty of thegesturing process is maintained.

At block 102, the transceiver 40 of the mobile device 26 may receive thebeacon signal 78 when generally within a prescribed range. Oncereceived, at block 104, the mobile device 26 generally initiates theapplication 60. In another embodiment, the application 60 may not needto be initiated by a beacon signal. Therefore, in some applications, theaccess assembly 24 may not be adapted to broadcast a beacon signal.

At block 106, when within a general vicinity of the access assembly 24,and/or with the application 60 active, the application 60 may beaccepting and processing compound motion data from the IMU sensor system46 of the mobile device 26 to determine the activity of the user 23(i.e., walking, conversing, standing still, and others), and otherinfluencing data or information from the environment detection system48, and/or the internal activity notification module 50 to determineinfluential parameters such as the mobile device location, positionand/or usage. At block 108, the application 60 matches the compoundmotion data and influencing parameter data to the preprogrammed scenariodata 66, with a predetermined level of confidence, to determine if theuser 23 is performing an intentional gesture (e.g., device-freeintentional gesture) indicative of an intent to access.

At block 110, and in one example, the user 23 may be walking with themobile device 26 in a rear pocket, and while performing a device-freeintentional gesture with the right hand 74. At block 112, theapplication 60 determines where the mobile device 26 is located on theuser 23, determines that the user 23 is walking, and determines that thedevice-free intentional gesture is being performed by comparing thecompound motion and other influencing parameter data (e.g., light,temperature, and others) to the scenario data 66. At block 114, andafter recognition of the device-free intentional gesture by thecontroller 42 of the mobile device 26, the mobile device 26 broadcasts acommand signal 38 to the access assembly 24. At block 116, the accessassembly 24 actuates from a no-access state and to an access state,whereupon the door 22 may be opened by the user 23.

In one embodiment, it may be a pre-condition that the user 23 is notwalking before a gesture may be recognized or accepted by the mobiledevice 26. In this embodiment, the accelerometer system and/or thegyroscope system of the mobile device 26 may be applied to confirm theuser 23 is generally motionless except for the motion of the gestureitself.

Detecting and/or Confirming an Intentional Gesture through RSSI

Referring again to FIG. 2, the beacon signal 78 broadcasted by theaccess assembly 24 via the transceiver 36 may be received by thecontroller 42, via the transceiver 40, and generally as a receivedsignal strength indicator (RSSI). More specifically and as an optionalembodiment, the gesture-based access control system 20 may furtherinclude an RSSI module 92 that may be software-based and part of theapplication 60. In other embodiments, the RSSI module 92 may by aseparate sensor system of the mobile device 26 that may include softwareand hardware.

In operation, the gesture-based access control system 20 may perform asdescribed in blocks 100-116 (see FIG. 3), except with the additionalfeature provided by the RSSI module 92. More specifically, the beaconsignal 78 received by the mobile device 26 at block 102 is alsoprocessed by the RSSI module 92 that is configured to detect periodicvariations in signal strength indicative of the intentional gesturecrossing through the signal 78 (i.e., near to and repetitiously crossingin front of the access assembly 24). In one example, it may be an arm ofthe user 23 crossing back-and-forth in front of the access assembly 26.In another embodiment, the placement of a hand of the user 23 on theaccess assembly 24 may also effect RSSI.

As described in block 110 above, the scenario data 66 may furtherinclude preprogrammed RSSI data indicative of the detected periodicvariation in signal strength expected when the device-free gesture isperformed. The RSSI module 92 may compare the measured periodicvariation in signal strength to the preprogrammed RSSI data to furtherconfirm, or increase a level of confidence, that the device-free gestureoccurred.

In another embodiment, the scenario data 66 may only include thepreprogrammed RSSI data. In this embodiment, the determination by theapplication 60 that the device-free gesture was performed may be basedsolely on the preprogrammed RSSI data. Therefore, the IMU sensor system46 may not be required.

Mobile Device Disposed in User Carried Containment

As previously described, the mobile device 26 may be located remotelyfrom the immediate vicinity of the intentional gesture (i.e.,device-free gesture 25) being performed. For example, the mobile device26 may be carried generally against the body of a user 23 (e.g., rearpocket) but not in the hand 74 performing the device-free gesture (seeFIG. 1).

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, a generally device-free gesture 25 may beperformed by the user 23, but with the mobile device 26 located in auser-carried containment 95. Non-limiting examples of the containment 95include a handbag (see FIGS. 10-12), a backpack (see FIGS. 13-15), andother containments adapted to store and/or carry personal items for theuser 23 including the mobile device 26.

In one embodiment, the containment 95 is adapted to be carried by aspecific body component of the user 23. For example, the handbag iscarried by the hand 74 of the user 23 and the backpack is carried by theback, or torso, 96 of the user 23. For high confidence detections of thedevice-free gesture 25, the containment 95 is carried by the bodycomponent performing the device-free gesture 25 (i.e., intentional bodygesture). For example, if the containment 95 is a handbag or purse, thehand 74 that grasps the handbag may perform the device-free gesture 25thus carrying the handbag along with the gesturing hand.

The motion of the mobile device 26 is generally measured as previouslydescribed using at least the IMU sensor system 46. In one scenario, themeasured motion of the mobile device 26 may be a compound motiondynamically created by the user 23 walking as the user performs theintentional body gesture 25 (i.e., device-free gesture). In thisscenario, the act of walking may cause the user 23 to swing the arm andhand 74 (i.e., a routine body motion, see arrow 97 in FIG. 10) inforward and rearward directions. The swinging of the hand 74 carries thehandbag 95 with it causing the mobile device to experience an associatedroutine containment motion (see arrow 98 in FIG. 10).

Referring to FIG. 11 and in a continuation of the containment 95 exampleof a handbag, the intentional body gesture 25 may be the twisting of awrist associated with the hand 74 of the user 23 that is grasping thehandbag 95. The intentional body gesture 25 creates an associatedcontainment gesture (see arrow 99). In one embodiment, the containmentgesture 99 may be an amplification of the intentional body gesture 25.In other embodiments, gesture 99 may be about the same as gesture 25 ormay be different but expected.

The measured motion of the mobile device 26 is thus a compound motionthat includes the containment gesture 99, which is directly affiliatedwith the intentional body gesture 25, and the routine containment motion98 that is affiliated with the routine body motion 97. Therefore, thecompound motion is indicative of the routine body motion 97 and theintentional body gesture 25 multiplied by a parameter factor. Theparameter factor may represent the type of containment 95 (i.e.,backpack or handbag) and the position and location of the mobile device26 with respect to the user 23 and the containment 95. The parameterfactor may be part of the scenario data 66, and the environmentdetection system 48 may assist in determining the position and locationof the mobile device 26 and the type of containment 95.

In one embodiment, the intentional body gesture 25 is such that theassociated containment gesture 99 is contrary to the routine containmentmotion 98. For example, the direction of gesture 99 is traverse, ororthogonal to the direction of motion 98. This will assist in higherlevels of confidence through improved motion differentiation by theapplication 60.

Referring to FIG. 12, another example of a containment gesture 99 isillustrated wherein a handbag is shaken vertically. In this example, theintentional body gesture may be the repetitious lifting and lowering ofthe hand 74.

Referring to FIGS. 13-15, another example of a containment 95 isillustrated as a backpack worn on the back, or torso, 101 of the user23. In FIG. 13 the containment gesture 99 may be caused by a twisting(i.e., the intentional body gesture 25) of the torso 101. In FIG. 14,the containment gesture 99 may be caused by a bending at the waist ofthe user 23. In FIG. 15, the containment gesture 99 may be caused by aflexing left-to-right of the torso 101 or waist of the user 23.

Detecting Device Gesture

As previously described, determining the occurrence of a device-freegesture can be accomplished through the analysis of a measured compoundmotion of the mobile device 26 and other influencing parameters. Forexample, if the mobile device 26 is in a back pocket 56, and a righthand 74 is performing the device-free gesture, the compound motionundergone by the mobile device 26 is analyzed as an indirect indicationof the device-free gesture occurrence.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 5, and in another embodiment, the mobile device26 may be used to perform the gesture (i.e., a device gesture). In thisexample, the device gesture is generally measured directly as the motionof the mobile device 26. However, it is still appreciated that themotion measured by the mobile device 26 may still be a type of compoundmotion.

For example, the device gesture (see arrow 94 in FIG. 6) may generallybe a generally horizontal waving of the mobile device 26. If the user 23remains perfectly still, other than performing the device gesture 94,the mobile device 26 can measure the device gesture 94 directly and nomotion differentiation of a compound motion is needed. However, if theuser 23 is walking while performing the device gesture 94, the walkingmotion will also be measured with the device gesture 94 thus producing ameasured compound motion. That is, the walking motion creates a kind ofnoise that may interfere with a reliable interpretation of accessintent.

The compound motion in this example may be analyzed as previouslydescribed with proper scenario data 66 established with the prescribedcondition that the intentional gesture is a device gesture 94. Other,non-limiting, examples of device gestures 94 may include waving themobile device 26 in a substantially vertical direction in front of theaccess assembly 24 (i.e., an imitated swiping of an imaginary accesscard, see FIG. 7), repeatedly moving the mobile device 26 toward andaway from the access assembly 24 (see FIG. 8), generally twisting themobile device 26 by about ninety degrees in front of the access assembly(see FIG. 9), and others gestures.

Like the example of a device-free gesture, in the example of the devicegesture 94, the access assembly 24 may not perform the motion detectionor measurement. All such analysis may remain with the application 60 aspart of the mobile device 26. Optionally, the mobile device 26 mayinclude the RSSI module 92 which can measure periodic variation signalstrength of a beacon signal 78 as a result of the mobile device 26,repetitiously, moving across the beacon signal path, or wirelessinterface 28.

Knocking/Tapping Gesture Access Control System

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 20, the gesture-based access control system 20,in one embodiment, may be a knocking gesture access control system. Inthis embodiment, the user 23 of the mobile device 26 performs a knockthat may be a predefined frequency of knocks. The term “knock” in thepresent embodiment would include the act of tapping. The knocking may beperformed on the mobile device 26, the access assembly 24, the door 22(see FIG. 1), a wall area proximate to the access assembly 24 and/ordoor 22, or any other surface conveniently located near the accesspoint.

The mobile device 26 of the knocking gesture access control system 20may further include a microphone 130, and a knock module 132 of theapplication 60. The microphone 130 may be sensitive enough to detect awide range of frequencies and magnitudes (i.e., loudness) to track thesound originated by repetitious knocking on, for example, a surface(e.g., front surface) of the mobile device 26, a surface of the door 22,a surface of the door frame 136, a surface of the access device 24, asurface of a wall 138 through which the door 22 provides access, orother surfaces. The knocking is an intentional gesture performed by theuser 23 (see knocking gesture 140 in FIG. 20. Knocking or tapping on themobile device 26 may be considered to be a device gesture as a type ofintentional gesture, and knocking on any other surface may be consideredto be a device-free gesture as a type of intentional gesture.

In one embodiment, the knock module 132 of the application 60 isconfigured to receive the signature of, or information relative to, theaudible sound created by the knocking gesture 140. The knock module 132may then compare a measured frequency pattern of the audible sound(i.e., frequency of knocks or taps) to a preprogrammed frequencypattern. In one embodiment, if the measured frequency patternsufficiently compares to, or substantially matches, the preprogrammedfrequency pattern, the knock module 132 may determine that the knockinggesture 140 was performed by the user 23, and effect the sending of thecommand signal 38 to the access assembly 24.

In another embodiment, the knocking gesture access control system 20 maybe configured to further confirm (e.g., independently confirm)performance of the knocking gesture to enhance reliability and reduce oreliminate false gesture confirmations. One such confirmation may includeuse of the IMU sensor system 46 similar to that previously described.For example, if the mobile device 26 is in a back pocket 56 (see FIG. 1)and the user 23 performs the knocking gesture 140 upon the door 22, themobile device 23 may still measure a motion (i.e., of the mobile device)attributable to the act of knocking. In certain scenarios (e.g., userwalking), the actual motion measured may be a compound motion, and theapplication 60 is configured to decipher multiple motions from thecompound motion. Once deciphered, the frequency pattern of the motionattributable by the knocking is compared to a preprogrammed motionfrequency pattern (i.e., may be the same as the audible frequencypattern), if the motion frequency pattern compares to, or substantiallymatches, the preprogrammed frequency pattern, the confirmation that theknocking gesture was performed is re-affirmed.

In another embodiment, the knocking gesture access control system 20 mayuse other sensory data to re-affirm gesture confirmation. For example,light sensor data from the environment detecting system 48 and/or RSSIdata produced by fluctuations of the beacon signal 78 and produced bythe RSSI module 92 as previously described. In one embodiment, theknocking gesture 140 may be a device-free gesture. In this example andif the IMU sensing system 46 is applied, the location of the mobiledevice 26 may also be determined in ways previously described. Thedetection process applied to detect the knocking gesture 140 may fusethe various methods described and optionally, the mobile device locationmethod, to provide good intent markers as part of the application 60.

Referring to FIGS. 2, 20 and 21, and in another embodiment, the knockinggesture 140 may be performed upon a front surface 148 of the mobiledevice 26. The mobile device 26 is associated with the X-Y-Z coordinatesillustrated in FIG. 21. If the knocking gesture 140 is performed againstthe surface 148, the audible knocking sound is evaluated as previouslydescribed. The re-confirmation of the detection utilizing the IMUsensing system 46 and conducted by the knock module 132, may evaluatethe motion along the Z-axis only to mask-off motion noise produced alongother coordinates. That is, the knocking is performed against the frontsurface 148, and the direction of the knocking is substantially normalto the front surface 148.

It is understood and contemplated that the knocking on the mobile device26 instead of the door 22 may prevent disturbing a person on the otherside of the door 22, where access is intended by the user 23. It isfurther understood, that preconditions may apply before the knockinggesture 140 is accepted. Such a pre-condition may be a requirement thatthe user 23 is within a pre-defined proximity of the access assembly 24,or door 22. Moreover, the knocking on the mobile device 26 can be donebefore the uses 23 reaches the door. In contrast, the example ofknocking on the door is when the user 23 has already arrived. Therefore,in the example of knocking on the mobile device 26 enables the user 23to perform an action as the user walks up to the door 22. The door 22may then be unlocked when the user 23 arrives.

Adaptive Intent Mode Detection

Referring to FIGS. 16 and 17, the gesture-based access control system 20may be flexible and capable of automatically adjusting for differentintentional gestures including the device gesture 94 (see FIG. 6) andthe device-free gesture 25 (see FIG. 1). In addition, the access controlsystem 20 may adjust for the array of motions (i.e., compound motions),locations, and positions of the mobile device 26 when determining if anintentional gesture 25, 94 is being performed by the user 23.

FIG. 16 illustrates a non-limiting plurality of mobile device 26locations and uses, wherein the application 60 is capable of adapting toin order to determine if an intentional gesture 25, 94 is beingperformed. Accordingly, with the determination of mobile device motion,location, position, and/or usage, the application 60 may be furthercapable of selecting an appropriate preprogrammed gesture from aplurality of preprogrammed gestures.

As previously described, the inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensorsystem 46, the environment detection system 48, and the internalactivity notification module 50, together, are capable of providinginformation used by the application 60 to determine if an intentionalgesture 25, 94 is being performed.

Examples of the potential multitude of mobile device 26 locations,positions, and uses are illustrated in FIG. 16 and may include depiction300 representative of the mobile device 26 located at an ear 302 of theuser 23 with a usage of conversing or calling, and a substantiallyvertical position. Depiction 304 represents the mobile device 26 beingin a front shirt pocket 306 thus having a substantially verticalposition and in a relatively dark environment. Depiction 308 isrepresentative of the mobile device 26 in the hand 74 of the user 23,positioned at about thirty degrees for texting, and with a usage oftexting. Depiction 310 is representative of the mobile device 26 beingin a front pants pocket 312, thus having a substantially verticalposition and being in a relatively dark environment. Depiction 314 isrepresentative of the mobile device 26 being located in the rear pantspocket 56 (also see FIG. 1) thus having a substantially verticalposition and being in a relatively dark environment. Depiction 316 isrepresentative of the mobile device 26 hanging. For example, the user 23may simply be carrying the mobile device 26 in the hand 74. Depiction318 is of the mobile device 26 in a handbag (i.e., containment 95, alsosee FIG. 10), thus in a dark environment, and depiction 320 is of themobile device 26 in a backpack (i.e., containment 95, also see FIG. 13).

Referring to FIG. 17, the application 60 of the access control system 20may include the activity notification module 50, an environment module322, a motion module 324, a selection module 326, and a plurality ofmode modules (i.e., five illustrated as 328A, 328B, 328C, 328D, 328E).The activity notification module 50 is configured to determine and/orcategorized current usage of the mobile device 26. Examples of usageinclude texting, conversing, standby, and others. The environment module322 is configured to receive and categorize environment information (seearrow 330) from the environment detection system 48. As previouslydescribed, environment information 330 may include light level data,temperature data, position data, location data, photographic data, sounddata, and other data. The motion module 324 is configured to receive andcategorize motion information (see arrow 332) from the IMU sensor system46. Non-limiting examples of motion information include the compoundmotion previously describe, and which may occur in a variety ofscenarios including when the user 23 is walking, standing still,carrying the containment 95, performing a usage, and a wide variety ofother events that may produce motion. One or more of the modules 50,322, 324 may include algorithms, which may be self-learning algorithms,and preprogrammed data (i.e., portions of the scenario data 66) torefine and/or categorize the information 330, 332, and other data foruse by the selection module 326.

The selection module 326 is configured to apply the information outputsfrom the modules 50, 322, 324 and thereby select one of the mode modules328. In one embodiment, each of the mode modules 328 may be, at leastin-part, associated with a respective depiction 300, 304, 308, 310, 318,320. The selection module 326 may include a preprogrammed matrix of data334 and algorithm(s). The preprogrammed matrix of data 334 may berepresentative of the motion and parameter (i.e., environment and usage)data received from the modules 50, 322, 324. At least from the matrix ofdata 334, the selection module is capable of selecting the appropriatemode module 328. This selection may occur prior to, or during, theperformance of an intentional gesture 25, 94.

Each mode module 328A, 328B, 328C, 328D, 328E may include a respective,preprogrammed, scenario data 66A, 66B, 66C, 66D, 66E of the scenariodata 66 previously. Each of the plurality of mode modules 328 may alsoinclude a respective one of a suite of intent detection algorithms 336(i.e., see 336A, 336B, 336C, 336D, 336E) for each respective mode moduleillustrated. In operation, the selection module 326 is configured togenerally activate the appropriate algorithm 336A, 336B, 336C, 336D,336E by selecting the appropriate module 328A, 328B, 328C, 328D, 328E.Each algorithm 336A, 336B, 336C, 336D, 336E is characterized inaccordance with the context where it is applied. For example, algorithm336A may be suitable when the user 23 has the mobile device 26 in thehand 74, but may be less suitable when the mobile device 26 is in therear pants pocket 56. Therefore, different mode modules 328 are enabledand disabled in real time by the selection module 326.

In operation, when the appropriate, selected, mode module 328conditionally detects the intentional gesture 25, 94, the mode modulemay output the command signal 38 to the access assembly 24.

Seamless Access Control System

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 18, and in one embodiment, the gesture-basedaccess control system 20 may be a seamless access control system adaptedto allow access to a user 23 after the user provides an inherent gesture334 (see FIG. 18) signifying the intentional desire and initial act of,for example, opening the door 22. More specifically, the inherentgesture 334 is the initial part of a typical user exercise 336 conductedto gain entry.

The mobile device 26 for the seamless access control system 20 may be awearable mobile device. Examples of the wearable mobile device 26include a smart watch, smart glasses, and smart shoe(s). The term“smart” is meant to indicate that the wearable mobile device 26 includesthe processor 56 and other features/components previously described.

The access assembly 26 may further include a short range communicationdevice 337 (e.g. near field communication (NFC)) for generating thebeacon signal 78. In one example, the short range communication device337 may be a Bluetooth device, the beacon signal 78 is a Bluetoothsignal, and the wearable mobile device 26 is configured to process theBluetooth signal. In one example, the proximity sensor 90 of theenvironment detection system 48 may be used to measure the strength ofthe beacon signal 78, and through this measurement, the application maydetermine the proximity of the wearable mobile device 26 to the accessassembly 24.

The mobile device 26 may further include a magnetometer 338 and aconfirm ground truth module 340 as part of the application 60 (see FIG.2). The magnetometer 338 may be leveraged to confirm, for example, thegrabbing of a handle 342 of the door 22 as part of the inherent gesture334. As best illustrated in FIG. 18, the inherent gesture 334 portion ofthe user exercise 336 may be a sequential set of motions made by theuser. The sequential set of motions may be dependent upon the type ofwearable mobile device 26 and the type of entry desired.

For simplicity of explanation and understanding that this is only one,non-limiting, embodiment of an application, the entry type to be gainedwill be described as entry through a door 22 (see FIG. 1). Also in thepresent embodiment, the type of mobile device 26 is the smartwatch. Inthis example, the inherent gesture 334 of the user exercise 336 maybegin with, at block 342, a deceleration of walking and/or stoppingcompletely. At block 344, the user 23 may lift the hand 74, carrying thesmartwatch 26 with the hand, in order to reach a handle 346 of the door22. At block 348, the hand 74 may grab the handle 346 preparing to pullor push the door 22 open. This grabbing action of the inherent gesture334 may be sensed by the magnetometer 338 of the wearable mobile device26.

In operation, and after the inherent gesture 334 is performed andconfirmed by the application 60, the wearable mobile device 26 sends thecommand signal 38 to the access assembly 24 to effect actuation from theno-access state to the access state, and as previously described. Withthe access assembly 24 in the access state, and at block 350, the user23 may complete the entry exercise 336 by pulling (see arrow 352) thedoor 22 open.

The confirm ground truth module 340 (see FIG. 2) of the application 60is configured to receive information from the IMU sensing system 46indicative of the pulling 352 that designates the final step of theentry exercise 336. This confirmed pulling 352 may be verified by apreprogrammed confirmation pull which may be part of the scenario data66 previously described. By confirming that the user 23 did indeedconduct the pulling 352, the module 340 is able to further confirm anaccurate determination of the inherent gesture. This confirmation maythen be used to further improve the machine learning algorithm(s) 336(see FIG. 17) and/or other applied algorithms executed by theapplication 60.

In the example of the wearable mobile device 26 being smart glasses, thesmart glasses may be worn about the head of the user 23, and parts ofthe inherent gesture 334 may include the user gaze when proximate to theaccess assembly 24, and tilting of the head when approaching the handle346 of the door 22.

In the example of the wearable mobile device 26 being smart shoes, thesmart shoes may be worn on the feet of the user 23, and part of theinherent gesture 334 may include the tapping of a foot of the user 23.

Prestaging, Gesture-based, Access Control System

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 22, the gesture-based access control system 20may be a prestaging, gesture-based access control system. In thisembodiment, the mobile device 26 is configured to pre-stage itself priorto the user performing a device, or device-free, gesture (i.e., aprimary gesture). That is, the system applies implicit behaviordetection in combination with an explicit gesture from a plurality ofgestures. The prestaging event, or process, may be, or may include theperformance of an inherent gesture 334 (see FIG. 18). After performanceof the inherent gesture 334 by the user 23, the user 23 needs to performthe primary gesture within a prescribed duration of time. One,non-limiting, example of the inherent gesture 334 may be the act ofslowing down a walk as the user 23 approaches the access assembly 24.

Referring to FIG. 2, the application 60, with any relevant hardware, mayfurther include a timer or clock 142 and a satellite-based locationmodule 144 (e.g., global positioning system (GPS). In anotherembodiment, the satellite-based location module 144 may be a separatedevice from the application 60, which is configured to send pertinentlocation information to the application 60.

In order to detect the prestaging event (i.e. inherent gesture 334), theIMU sensing system 46 may be active. The activation of the IMU sensingsystem 46 may be triggered when the user 23 is within a prescribedvicinity of the access assembly 24. Establishing a user 23 presencewithin the vicinity may be established in any one of a variety of ways.For example, any one or more of the following may be used: thesatellite-based location module 144, the proximity sensor 90 of theenvironment detecting system 48, detection of the beacon signal 78generated from the short range communication device 337 of the accessassembly 24, and others.

In one, non-limiting, embodiment the implicit detection of an accessintent of the user 23 may rely on the intuition that the user will slowdown, and stop, as the user approaches a destination door 22 associatedwith the access assembly 24, and perform a primary, intentional gesture,to indicate the intent. This intuition may be leveraged to improve thereliability of gesture detection.

Referring to FIG. 22, a method of operating the prestaging,gesture-based, access control system 20 is illustrated. At block 400,the IMU sensing system 46 is initiated, wherein the IMU analyticsperformed by the motion module 324 of the application 60 are started. Atblock 402, the motion module 324 determines if, for example, the user 23is walking. At block 404, and if the user 23 is walking, the motionmodule 324 determines if the user 23 is slowing down the walk (i.e., theinherent gesture 334). If the walking is slowing down, the inherentgesture 334 (in this example) is detected.

At block 406, and after the user 23 is detected, or confirmed, via theinherent gesture 334, the application 60 may start a timer 142 therebyrunning a prescribed time duration. At block 408, and during theprescribed time duration, the mobile device 26 monitors for theoccurrence of a primary, intentional, gesture. If the primary,intentional, gesture is detected and at block 410, the application 60effects the output of the command signal 38 to the access assembly 24(e.g., open door 22). It is contemplated and understood that theprimary, intentional, gesture may be a device gesture, a device-freegesture, and/or another inherent gesture.

At block 412, as an optional step, and if the primary intentionalgesture has yet to be detected, the motion module 324 of the application(or by other means) may determine if the user 23 has, for example,stopped walking altogether. If no, the application 60 continues tomonitor for the performance of the primary, intentional, gesture. Thisoptional step may assist when the gesture detection is not at a highconfidence level. If the user 23 has stopped walking and at block 414,the application 60 determines if the time duration has expired. If thetime duration has not expired, the application 60 continues to monitorfor the performance of the primary, intentional, gesture. If the timeduration has expired, the process is deactivated, or the motion module324 is re-initiated for detection of the prestaging, inherent, gesture(i.e., prestaging event performed by the user 23) if the user 23 remainsin the vicinity of the access assembly 24.

It is contemplated and understood, that at any stage during the process(e.g., at block 408), the mobile device 26 may provide audible and/orvisual notifications to the user 23. For example, the mobile device 26may notify the user 23 that the mobile device is waiting upon theperformance of the primary, intentional, gesture. As another example andupon expiration of the time duration, the mobile device 26 may informthe user 23 that detection of the primary, intentional, gesture hasfailed.

In one embodiment, the prestaging event may be preprogrammed, and theprimary intentional gesture may be pre-selected from a plurality ofpreprogramed gestures by the user 23. Non-limiting examples of theprimary, intentional, gesture may include: the waving of the hand 74near the access assembly 24 (i.e., a type of device-free or body gesture25, see FIG. 1); tapping on the door 22 or the access assembly 24 (atype of device-free or body gesture 25, see FIG. 20); a specific bodygesture triggering inertial motion, wherein the mobile device isattached to the body of the user (also see FIG. 1); applying a bodymotion to a containment 95 containing the mobile device 26 and carriedby the user 23 (i.e., a containment motion 99, see FIGS. 12-15); thewaving of the mobile device 26 near the access assembly 24 (i.e., a typeof device gesture 94, see FIGS. 6-9).

Cloud-based, Gesture-based, Access Control System

Referring to FIG. 19, the gesture-based access control system 20 mayinclude use of a cloud 360 (i.e., remote server). In this embodiment,the application 60 may be in the cloud 360, thus information 330, 332gathered by the IMU sensing system 46, the environment detecting system48, and other components may be wirelessly sent from the mobile device26 and to the cloud 360 for processing. The command signal 38 may besent directly from the cloud 360 and to the access assembly 24, or backto the mobile device 26 that then sends the signal 38 to the accessassembly 24.

Benefits of a cloud-based architecture include the performance of someor all computations and the storage of data in the cloud. This permitsuse of what may be more powerful algorithms, but at the potentialexpense of delay in communication. Another advantage may be that themobile device 26 does not need to communicate directly with the accessassembly 24, and instead, the cloud 360 communicates a command signaldirectly to the access assembly 24 for access granting.

Advantages and benefits of the present disclosure include enablement ofgesture detection without the need to hold a mobile device 26 in thehand. Another advantage includes the ability to identify, for example, adoor 22 that a user 23 intends to enter as part of the intent detection.Yet other advantages include reliable intent detection, and a relativelyinexpensive and robust design.

The various functions described above may be implemented or supported bya computer program that is formed from computer readable program codes,and that is embodied in a computer readable medium. Computer readableprogram codes may include source codes, object codes, executable codes,and others. Computer readable mediums may be any type of media capableof being accessed by a computer, and may include Read Only Memory (ROM),Random Access Memory (RAM), a hard disk drive, a compact disc (CD), adigital video disc (DVD), or other non-transitory forms.

The terminology used in the description of the various describedembodiments herein is for the purpose of describing particularembodiments only and is not intended to be limiting. As used in thedescription of the various described embodiments and the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a”, “an” and “the” are intended to includethe plural forms as well, unless the context clearly indicatesotherwise. It will also be understood that the term “and/or” as usedherein refers to and encompasses any and all possible combinations ofone or more of the associated listed items. It will be furtherunderstood that the terms “includes,” “including,” “comprises,” and/or“comprising,” when used in this specification, specify the presence ofstated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/orcomponents, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or moreother features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components,and/or groups thereof.

As used herein, the term “if” is, optionally, construed to mean “when”or “upon” or “in response to determining” or “in response to detecting,”depending on the context. Similarly, the phrase “if it is determined” or“if [a stated condition or event] is detected” is, optionally, construedto mean “upon determining” or “in response to determining” or “upondetecting [the stated condition or event]” or “in response to detecting[the stated condition or event],” depending on the context.

Terms used herein such as component, application, module, system, andthe like are intended to refer to a computer-related entity, eitherhardware, a combination of hardware and software, or software execution.By way of example, an application may be, but is not limited to, aprocess running on a processor, a processor, an object, an executable, athread of execution, a program, and/or a computer. An applicationrunning on a server and the server, may be a component. One or moreapplications may reside within a process and/or thread of execution andan application may be localized on one computer and/or distributedbetween two or more computers.

While the present disclosure has been described with reference to anexemplary embodiment or embodiments, it will be understood by thoseskilled in the art that various changes may be made and equivalents maybe substituted for elements thereof without departing from the scope ofthe present disclosure. In addition, many modifications may be made toadapt a particular situation or material to the teachings of the presentdisclosure without departing from the essential scope thereof.Therefore, it is intended that the present disclosure not be limited tothe particular embodiment disclosed as the best mode contemplated forcarrying out this present disclosure, but that the present disclosurewill include all embodiments falling within the scope of the claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A prestaging, gesture-based, access controlsystem comprising: a local access assembly adapted to operate between anaccess state and a no-access state, the local access assembly includinga controller to effect actuation between the access state and theno-access state; a mobile device adapted to be carried by a user, themobile device including at least one detection system configured todetect a prestaging event inherently performed by the user toward anintent to gain access, and followed by the detection of a primaryintentional gesture specifically performed by the user toward the intentto gain access; one or more electronic storage mediums configured tostore an application and preprogrammed scenario data associated with theprestaging event and the primary intentional gesture; and one or moreprocessors configured to receive prestaging event information andprimary intentional gesture information from the at least one detectionsystem, and execute the application to determine the performance of theprestaging event from the prestaging event information, then determinethe performance of the primary intentional gesture from the primaryintentional gesture information if the prestaging event is determined tohave occurred.
 2. The prestaging, gesture-based, access control systemset forth in claim 1, wherein the prestaging event is an inherentgesture.
 3. The prestaging, gesture-based, access control system setforth in claim 2, wherein the inherent gesture is a decelerating walk bythe user, and the at least one detection system includes an inertialmeasurement unit (IMU) sensing system configured to measure motion ofthe mobile device indicative of the decelerating walk.
 4. Theprestaging, gesture-based, access control system set forth in claim 1,wherein the one or more processors include a timer, and the applicationis configured to initiate the timer upon the detection of the prestagingevent.
 5. The prestaging, gesture-based, access control system set forthin claim 4, wherein the primary intentional gesture is performed andconfirmed during a prescribed time interval measured by the timer. 6.The prestaging, gesture-based, access control system set forth in claim1, wherein the application is configured to effect a command signal sentto the access assembly to actuate the access assembly from the no-accessstate to the access state if the primary intentional gesture isdetermined.
 7. The prestaging, gesture-based, access control system setforth in claim 1, wherein the mobile device includes a human interfacedevice (HID) adapted to provide notifications to the user.
 8. Theprestaging, gesture-based, access control system set forth in claim 5,wherein the mobile device includes a human interface device (HID)adapted to provide notifications to the user during the prescribed timeduration.
 9. The prestaging, gesture-based, access control system setforth in claim 1, wherein the prestaging event contributes toward amotion of the mobile device, and the at least one detection systemincludes an inertial measurement unit (IMU) sensing system configured tomeasure the motion.
 10. The prestaging, gesture-based, access controlsystem set forth in claim 9, wherein the application includes a motionmodule configured to receive the measured motion and determineprestaging event occurrence based at least in-part on the measuredmotion.
 11. The prestaging, gesture-based, access control system setforth in claim 9, wherein the primary intentional gesture is detected byat least one of the IMU sensing system and an environment detectingsystem of the at least one detection system.
 12. The prestaging,gesture-based, access control system set forth in claim 10, wherein themotion module is initiated by the application upon a determination bythe application that the user is within a prescribed vicinity of theaccess assembly as determined by at least one of a received signalstrength indicator (RSSI) module of the application and asatellite-based location detection module of the application.
 13. Amethod of operating a prestaging, gesture-based, access control systemcomprising: monitoring for a prestaging event by a mobile device andperformed by a user, wherein the mobile device is carried by the userand the prestaging event is indicative of an inherent intent of the userto gain access; detecting the prestaging event by at least one detectionsystem of the mobile device; confirming the detection by an applicationexecuted by one or more processors; initiating a timer by theapplication and upon the confirmation of the prestaging event; andmonitoring for a primary intentional gesture by the at least onedetection system and during a prescribed time interval counted by thetimer.
 14. The method set forth in claim 13 further comprising:detecting the primary intentional gesture by the at least one detectionsystem; confirming detection of the primary intentional gesture by theapplication; effecting delivery of a command signal by the applicationand to an access assembly adapted to actuate between an access state anda no-access state.
 15. The method set forth in claim 14, wherein theprestaging event is a decelerating walk.
 16. The method set forth inclaim 15, wherein the at least one detection system includes an inertialmeasurement unit (IMU) sensing system configured to measure thedecelerating walk.
 17. The method set forth in claim 16, wherein theprimary intentional gesture is a device-free gesture.
 18. The method setforth in claim 17, wherein the device-free gesture is a waving of a handof the user proximate to the access assembly.
 19. The method set forthin claim 16, wherein the primary intentional gesture is a devicegesture.
 20. The method set forth in claim 19, wherein the devicegesture is a waving of the mobile device proximate to the accessassembly.